This paper gives
insights in to folk conservation practices performed by the Gond tribal of the Mendha village of the
Central India. The study performed during
2003-2004. The data has been generated through individual interviews, group discussion,
attending religious ceremonies, etc. All practices divided in to 3 broad types,
viz. species level conservation efforts, ecosystem level conservation efforts
and modern ways of the nature conservation. Species level conservation efforts
visualized in to totemic species, species of the ritualistic or religious
importance and other restraint on utilization of certain species. The ecosystem
level conservation efforts mainly consist of sacred groves, sacred ponds,
sacred pools along river, etc. The modern ways of the nature conservation in
Mendha village are attributed to recent transformation of village due to its
empowered Gramsabha (Village
Council). The objectives of the study was to document the traditional wisdom of
the local people regarding nature conservation so that same can be utilized and
protected in the context of modern conservation practices.